Saturday, May 15

West River Migratory Bird Count day

May 14, 15, and 16 a number of volunteer birders in the Black Hills do an annual migration census. Similar to the Audubon Christmas Bird Count in some respects, we are checking to see what migrants are arriving and passing through. I walked about 4.5 miles along the banks of Rapid Creek, found some old familiar friends seen for the first time this spring. Yellow warblers and song sparrows were the singers, spotted towhees were the skulkers and blue jays were the early warning system. I have 58 species on my list so far, more counting tomorrow.
The eagles I did not see, they move on after spending the winter. This one is on our Academy tipi cover. Our Native American graduating seniors were honored at a Feather Ceremony on Wednesday. An awesome and moving traditional celebration, it was a privilege to be there and watch the kids receive their eagle feathers and eagle plumes.
It has been a week of birds across the spectrum.

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